Thanks for all of the crossed fingers and well wishes, it really helped me a lot! I was a bundle of nerves on and off yesterday in anticipation of the interview. It was the first real interview I've had in over four years. For me, that's a long time!
The interview went pretty well. It was hard to tell just how well I did, as it was 45 minutes of non-stop questions, many of which were pretty philosophical. I really just did the best I could. I tried to be myself, and I think that they liked me, so at least there's that.
Here's the job I applied for:
Special Olympics BC has an opening for a Manager, Fund Development. This position reports to the Vice President, Fund Development and Communication.
Duties include:
• Fundraising event program/concept planning and development.
• Coordination of event details as required.
• Providing administrative assistance to Fundraising Department in all areas, internally and externally.
• Documenting and distribution of minutes at committee meetings.
• Development and maintenance of databases; event and corporate.
• Preparation of applications for grants and foundations.
• Successful candidate will lead some projects and provide support for others.
Skills Required:
• Attention to detail a must.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication.
• Knowledge of general computer programs and systems.
• Ability to identify and communicate priorities, and handle multiple tasks.
• Ability to work under pressure.
• Ability to present to varying size groups in a professional manner.
• Ability to create fundraising concepts and opportunities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Exceptional customer service skills.
• Must hold valid driver's license.
Candidate Profile:
• Prepared and willing to show initiative in all areas of responsibility.
• Shows sense of urgency in all areas of responsibility, flexibility and good stress management techniques.
• Team player, actively participating in meetings, corporate events.
• Positive, professional, committed attitude.
• Ability to work in a small, team-oriented, event-related environment.
• Ability to work nights and weekends as required.
• Ability to travel required.
• Positive and keen attitude towards working with individuals who have intellectual disabilities.
The actual posting I responded to was a very brief summary of this, so I didn't know just how awesome it was. Upon doing my pre-interview research, I came across this on their website, which helped a lot for my interview prep.
There were more than 60 applicants, and I was one of 15 to get an interview. They'll be picking 4 or 5 for second interviews. gaaaah. So, I'm trying not to get my hopes up. I guess I should be happy that I made to the top 15/60, and that they called me the day after I sent my resume in, but I want to win dangit!
In the meantime, I'm still working on applications/cover letters/etc. It's hard to stay motivated to apply for a lot of the positions I come across, because this position at Special Olympics is pretty much exactly what I wanted. Everything else seems so boring! However, I need a job, regardless of the coolness of a job I may not get, so I have to plug on. I'm hoping to send out two or three resumes before this day is over. Also, I got a reference letter from Old Boss, so that's helpful. I also need to get that EI application in.